A TOWN boxing club is helping the fight against cancer by raising £1,000.

Spennymoor Boxing Academy coach Robert Ellis, and club medic Dr Andrew Herd, stepped into the ring at the club's annual show last month to ask for the support of guests.

The 550-strong audience, at Spennymoor Leisure Centre, threw coins and notes into the ring until the canvas was covered with £580.

A charity auction and further donations brought the total to £1,000, which is to be donated to Cancer Research UK.

Mr Ellis said: "During 13 years as chief coach I have seen more and more people touched by cancer, if not personally through a friend or relative.

"This is a charity close to my heart because I lost my dad to cancer just over six months ago. I hope this £1,000 will help to give future hope to many."